Learn about Thoracic Cancer Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Thoracic Cancer and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Thoracic Cancer

Thoracic cancer management by a pulmonologist involves the comprehensive diagnosis, staging, and treatment of cancers originating in the chest cavity, primarily the lungs, pleura, and mediastinum. As a specialist in respiratory diseases, the pulmonologist plays a central role in the multidisciplinary team. Their expertise includes performing advanced diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopy with biopsies, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), and thoracentesis to obtain tissue samples for accurate diagnosis and molecular profiling. They guide treatment planning, which may involve coordinating with oncologists and thoracic surgeons for therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted immunotherapies, while also managing cancer-related respiratory symptoms and complications to optimize patient quality of life.

Key Highlights

    Central role in a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive lung cancer care.Expertise in minimally invasive diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopy and EBUS for accurate staging.Access to advanced molecular and genetic profiling of tumor tissue to guide personalized therapy.Management of cancer-related respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath) to improve quality of life.Coordination of care between medical oncology, radiation oncology, and thoracic surgery.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Persistent cough, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
  • Abnormal chest X-ray or CT scan findings suggestive of a lung mass or nodule.
  • Presence of risk factors (e.g., long-term smoking history, family history, exposure to asbestos/radon) with concerning symptoms.
  • To obtain a tissue biopsy for diagnosis and molecular testing of a suspected thoracic tumor.
  • For staging of known lung cancer to determine the extent of disease spread.
  • Management of malignant pleural effusions (fluid buildup due to cancer).

How to prepare

  • Complete review of medical history, imaging (CT/PET scans), and any prior biopsies.
  • Pre-procedure blood tests and pulmonary function tests to assess fitness.
  • Discussion of the planned diagnostic procedure (e.g., bronchoscopy), including its benefits and risks.
  • Fasting for 6-8 hours before a scheduled procedure requiring sedation.
  • Adjustment or temporary cessation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised.
  • Arranging for a companion to drive the patient home after procedures involving sedation.

Risks & possible complications

  • Procedure-specific risks: Bleeding, infection, or pneumothorax (collapsed lung) from biopsies.
  • Reactions to sedation or anesthesia used during diagnostic procedures.
  • General risks of cancer treatment: Side effects from chemotherapy/immunotherapy (fatigue, nausea), radiation pneumonitis, or surgical complications if surgery is part of the plan.
  • Disease progression or recurrence despite treatment.
  • Emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • After diagnostic procedures: Brief observation for complications; rest for 24 hours; avoid driving if sedated.
  • Management of post-procedure sore throat or cough following bronchoscopy.
  • Active treatment phase (chemotherapy/radiation): Close monitoring for side effects; managing symptoms with supportive medications; maintaining nutrition and hydration.
  • Regular follow-up appointments for imaging (CT scans) and assessments to monitor treatment response.
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation may be recommended to improve lung strength and endurance.
  • Access to supportive care services, including pain management, nutritional counseling, and psychological support.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: Varies widely (0 days for outpatient biopsy to 5-10+ days for major surgery)
  • checked Expected recovery time: Varies by treatment (Weeks for chemotherapy cycles to several months after major surgery)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering thoracic cancer in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for thoracic cancer compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 551 – USD 16,518 Varies widely (0 days for outpatient biopsy to 5-10+ days for major surgery) ~ Varies by treatment (Weeks for chemotherapy cycles to several months after major surgery) Know More
Turkey USD 4,098 – USD 122,934 Varies widely (0 days for outpatient biopsy to 5-10+ days for major surgery) ~ Varies by treatment (Weeks for chemotherapy cycles to several months after major surgery) Know More

Top hospitals for Thoracic Cancer in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated pulmonology teams and experience managing patients undergoing thoracic cancer.

  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
3363+ Rating

Kamineni Hospital, King Koti

  • IconHyderabad, India
  • Icon20 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
1610+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Varthur Road

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon75 Doctors
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
  • Star
1161+ Rating

Artemis Hospital Gurgaon

  • IconGurgaon, India
  • Icon141 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Neha Bhatia, a 58-year-old former school...

Neha Bhatia, a 58-year-old former school principal and lifelong non-smoker, had always been active and health-conscious. For months, she dismissed a persistent, dry cough as lingering allergies or post-viral irritation. When she began feeling a dull ache in her upper back and noticed she was getting winded climbing the stairs to her apartment, her daughter insisted she see a doctor. A chest X-ray revealed a concerning shadow. A subsequent CT scan and biopsy, guided by her pulmonologist, Dr. Mehta, confirmed a diagnosis of early-stage adenocarcinoma in her right lung. Dr. Mehta explained that due to the tumor's location and size, a robotic-assisted lobectomy (surgical removal of the affected lung lobe) offered the best chance for a cure. Neha was terrified, grappling with the unfairness of the diagnosis and fear of major surgery. The procedure went smoothly, though the immediate recovery in the hospital was painful and exhausting. With diligent physiotherapy and support from her family, Neha gradually regained her strength and lung capacity. Six months later, follow-up scans show no evidence of cancer. Her emotional journey moved from shock and fear to profound gratitude and a redefined purpose. She now volunteers with a cancer support network, using her experience to guide others, and cherishes each day with a renewed intensity.

Pulmonologists for Thoracic Cancer

Explore experienced pulmonologists who regularly perform thoracic cancer and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Divya Shree J
  • 3 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Pooja Bajaj
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. K Thiruppathi
  • Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist

MediFyr Plus SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vaibhav Pandharkar
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 750
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Pune

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. RC Sahoo
  • 45 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 550
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus KMC Hospital Mangalore, Mangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Milind Kulkarni
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 550
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Pune

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Raghu B Puttaswamy
  • 13 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 750
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Mohammed Attaullah Khan S
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1200
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Hebbal, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Mini Garg
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Rajender Saini
  • 13 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vishak Acharya
  • 25 Years Experience
  • Pulmonologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 400
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus KMC Hospital Mangalore, Mangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated